Edward Hopkins

Hopkins, Edward, 1600–1657, colonial governor of Connecticut, b. England. He migrated (1637) to Hartford, where he soon became a leader because of his wealth and ability. He became governor of the Connecticut colony in 1640 and was governor, assistant governor, or deputy governor every year until 1656, the law not allowing the office of governor to be held two years in succession. As a delegate from Connecticut he helped to form the New England Confederation, and he was elected one of the confederation commissioners. He returned to England shortly before his death to become warden of the fleet, keeper of the palace at Westminster, and member of Parliament.